Fire Prevention & Education

Learn how to keep your family safe from the seasonal threats that may endanger you including grilling, fireworks and holiday fires!

SUMMER FIRE SAFETY

Fireworks:

Simply stated, fireworks are just too risky for anyone! People are urged to leave fireworks, whether legal or illegal, to professionals. Fireworks endanger not only the users, but the bystanders and surrounding buildings and property. Pyrotechnic devices ranging from sparklers to aerial rockets cause thousands of fires and serious injuries each year. NFPA Fireworks Safety

Grilling:

Grills should always be used outside and never indoors, in enclosed spaces or tents

Situate your grill away from combustible materials and out from under eaves and low-hanging branches

Keep children and pets away from grills

Use grilling tools/utensils with long handles to prevent burns

Clean your grill regularly to prevent grease and fat buildup which can ignite

See the Willmar Municipal Code below pertaining to grills at apartment complexes:

ARTICLE I. IN GENERAL; Sec. 6-1. Fires or barbecues prohibited.

In any structure containing three (3) or more dwelling units, no person shall kindle, maintain, or cause any fire or open flame on any balcony above ground level, or on any ground floor patio within fifteen (15) feet of the structure, except listed electric or gas-fired barbecue grills that are permanently mounted and wired or plumbed to the building's gas supply or electrical system and that maintain a minimum clearance of twenty-eight (28) inches on all sides, unless listed for lesser clearances, may be installed on balconies and patios when approved by the fire chief.